A enjoyable read. But I wish federal holidays were celebrated in a more dignified way. To me, there are now TOO MANY paid--at least to the politicians--holidays and their only true purpose is reason to PARTY.

In the inner-city ghettos, no one seems to have the money to pay the rent yet fireworks purchases probably outsell weed and "back of the house" barbeque. The TNT content is so potent, it actually shakes the walls of nearby dwellings. And I feel for the feral dogs and cats, many seen running here and there in confused terror.

The country can do WITHOUT the fireworks.